Daily Archives: October 7, 2011

Every year Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals identify a child with a remarkable medical story from each state and name them a “Champion.”

The Florida CMNH Champion for 2011 is 10-year-old Haley Richardson, a native of Jacksonville whose grandparents Vernon and Janie Richardson, as well as other close relatives, are from Baker County.

In 2009, Haley was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer that tends to strike children just entering adolescence.

Formerly an active gymnast, Haley since then has undergone surgery, extended chemotherapy and was fitted with a newly developed prosthetic knee replacement which can be adjusted without surgery as she grows.

CMNH partners with various companies like Proctor & Gamble to raise funds for treatment of children with life threatening diseases.

To my great delight, I found myself sitting face-to-face with Jamie Farr, the actor who played the unforgettable character of Klinger on the smash hit television show M.A.S.H., which ran from 1972-83.

M.A.S.H. followed the daily routines of a team of doctors and support staff stationed at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital in South Korea during the Korean War, made Farr a huge star.

The conniving corporal Klinger was determined to escape the army by receiving a section 8 medical discharge for engaging in bizarre behavior while wearing women’s clothing. His goofy exploits and frequent wardrobe changes became a cornerstone of the show.

Robert Dale Wilkerson, 63, of Macclenny died September 29 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Jacksonville after a long illness. He resided in Macclenny all of his life and was the son of the late Thomas James Wilkerson and Maggie Lee Floyd Wilkerson. He worked as an auto mechanic and a pipe fitter for many years. He attended Faith Baptist Church and enjoyed fishing and being with members of his family.

Survivors include son Roger D. (Lori) Bennett of Glen St. Mary; sisters Judy Harris of Macclenny, Paulette Darcangelo of Fleming Island and Brenda (Tony) Thomas of Maxville; brothers James (Gail) Wilkerson and Ricky (Joyce) Wilkerson, both of Glen St. Mary, Danny (Connie) Wilkerson, David (Alice) Wilkerson and Tony Starling all of Macclenny; grandchild Chris Carter of Tyrone, GA.

A graveside funeral service was held, Monday, October 3 at 1 pm at Oak Grove Cemetery with Mr. Brian Graham officiating. Guerry Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Robert Ezra Lentz Sr., 50, of St. George died September 29, 2011. Robert was born to the late Paul Ezra Lentz and Ida Mae Renshaw Lentz in Atlanta on March 3, 1961. He was a Charlton County resident most of his life and attended First Baptist Church of St. George. Robert was an avid NASCAR and Bulldog fan. He enjoyed fishing, cooking out and spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include sons Robert Ezra Lentz of Wisconsin, Steven D. Lentz of Indiana, Curtis G. (Chelsey) Lentz of Maryland and Joshua L. Lentz of St. George; brothers Lanier Lentz of St. George and Buddy Johnson of Yulee; sisters Delaine Creppell of Jacksonville, Gayle Petty of Folkston and Glenda Sirmans of Nashville, GA; grandchildren Austin, Aaliya, Alexis Raylan, Rylie and Kodie.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, October 4 at 11:00 am at his church with Pastor Ray McKendree officiating. V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services was in charge of the arrangements.